The Choice

In this powerful exploration of Proverbs 9, we're confronted with a profound choice that shapes our spiritual journey: the path of wisdom or the path of folly. The chapter paints a vivid picture of two invitations - one from Lady Wisdom and another from Lady Folly. We're challenged to consider which table we're sitting at in our lives. Are we feasting on the rich, satisfying food of God's wisdom, or are we being seduced by the empty promises of worldly folly? This message reminds us of Jesus' words about the narrow and wide gates in Matthew 7, emphasizing that our choices have eternal consequences. As we navigate life's journey, we're encouraged to incline our ears to God's voice, to slow down and truly listen to His Word. The fear of the Lord is presented as the beginning of wisdom, inviting us to cultivate a deep reverence for God that transforms our decision-making and ultimately our lives.

**Detailed Notes:**

1. **Introduction:**

  - The sermon focuses on Proverbs chapter 9, marking the end of a section in Proverbs that discusses wisdom.

  - This chapter contrasts wisdom and folly, presenting a vital choice everyone must make.

2. **Proverbs 9 Overview:**

  - Proverbs 9 is divided into three sections despite some perceived organizational issues.

  - The chapter presents a choice between the paths of wisdom and folly, akin to Jesus's teaching in Matthew 7 about the narrow and wide gates.

3. **Imagery and Theme:**

  - The speaker uses the analogy of State Street in Bristol, which separates two states, to illustrate the choice between wisdom and folly.

  - Wisdom and folly are personified and exist on opposite sides of life's road, drawing parallels to everyday decisions.

4. **Invitation to Wisdom:**

  - Verses 1-6 describe wisdom as a woman inviting people to her prepared feast, symbolizing wise living and adherence to God’s ways.

  - Related Scriptures: Matthew 7 and Isaiah 55 emphasize choosing the path of wisdom and listening to God's invitation.

5. **Response to Wisdom and Folly:**

  - Verses 7-12 discuss the consequences of responding to wisdom or folly.

  - A wise person embraces correction and grows, while a scoffer rejects it.

  - The theme echoes throughout the Bible: the beginning of wisdom is the fear of the Lord.

6. **Temptation of Folly:**

  - Verses 13-18 depict folly as seductive, tempting people with false promises.

  - Folly’s ultimate end is destruction, as stated in Proverbs 14:12 and Romans 6:23.

  - The speaker connects this to the truth that Jesus offers life abundantly in John 10:10.

7. **Conclusion with Psalm 23:**

  - The sermon concludes with Psalm 23, emphasizing God’s provision and guidance.

  - We must recognize God’s voice and choose to dwell in His house by embracing His guidance.

**Practical Applications:**

1. Reflect on areas in your life where you struggle to choose wisdom over folly. Identify distractions that lead you astray and develop strategies to refocus on God’s wisdom.

2. Cultivate a practice of deep Bible study over speed-reading. Take time to meditate on specific passages, allowing God to speak to you through His word.

3. Regularly assess your response to correction. Embrace feedback with humility, rather than defensiveness, to grow in wisdom.

4. Foster relationships with those who guide you towards wisdom and hold you accountable in your spiritual walk.

**Discussion Questions:**

1. What are some modern-day examples of folly that you encounter, and how do they tempt you away from the path of wisdom?

2. How can you practically "enter by the narrow gate" in your daily life, as Jesus teaches in Matthew 7?

3. Have you experienced a time when correction was difficult to accept but ultimately helped you grow? Share your experience.

4. In what ways can your community or church support each other in making wiser choices and avoiding folly?

5. How do you discern God’s voice among the many distractions and temptations in the world today?